Jacob graduated with his MOT in 2018 and received his ppOTD from Chatham University in 2022. He currently works as an assistant professor at West Virginia University. His clinical experience includes inpatient neuro rehab, skilled nursing, and neuro outpatient. Jacob is a Certified Stroke Recovery Specialist and certified in aquatic therapy. Outside of the traditional clinic, he works in community-based care with an emphasis on providing services to individuals experiencing homelessness.
Vice President - Kayleigh Nolan, OTR/L
Kayleigh Nolan is the current WVOTA Vice President. I am an occupational therapist and assistant professor in occupational therapy at West Virginia University. I have been an occupational therapist for 6.5 years and have worked in inpatient mental health, acute care, and inpatient rehabilitation settings. I have a specialty certification through AOTA for low-vision rehabilitation. I am passionate about OT in mental health, especially OT’s role in adult life transitions.
Secretary - Traci Turley, OTR/L
Traci Turley is an Occupational Therapist with over 25 years of experience. She graduated from Troy University with a degree in Rehabilitation Science and the University of Alabama in Birmingham with a BS and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. Her primary expertise is in geriatrics through clinical work in Skilled Nursing, ALF/ILF, and Home Health settings. Traci is currently a Site Coordinator and an Assistant Professor in the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at the University of Charleston. She is married to Mike and lives in Elkview, WV.
Taylor Grout is a recent graduate from West Virginia University’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program. She is originally from O’Fallon, IL and prior to moving to WV, she studied at Missouri State University where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise and Movement Sciences and became a certified Exercise Physiologist with the American College of Sports Medicine. During her time in OT school, Taylor served as a WVOTA Student Representative, where she participated in annual conference planning and served as a liaison between the organization and WVU’s OT program.
The University of Charleston, OTA Program Student Reps
Morgan Lilly, OTA/S
Morgan Lilly is a second-year OTA student at the University of Charleston. She chose occupational therapy as my profession in her sophomore year of high school after being diagnosed with several chronic illnesses. Occupational therapists helped her tremendously in doing activities she thought she could never do again. She felt as if she regained control and purpose in my life and found passion within this profession. She hopes one day she has the opportunity to help someone else enjoy occupations they once could not do and find purpose within themselves.
Megan Wadsworth, OTA/S
Megan Wadsworth is an OTA student at the University of Charleston- Beckley campus. She is from Summersville, West Virginia. Megan chose to study occupational therapy to help people live life the way they want to despite the challenges life may give them. After graduation, she plans to continue her studies to become a registered occupational therapist. In her free time, Megan enjoys spending time with her pets, reading autobiographies, and cooking.
West Virginia University- MOT and OTD program Student Reps
Matthew Lilly, OT/S
Matthew is a first-year occupational therapy student at West Virginia University. A lifelong Mountaineer, Matthew is from Athens, West Virginia, and completed his undergraduate studies at West Virginia University in 2024. Matthew strives to help others live their lives to the fullest and, in his free time, enjoys time spent outdoors and sports.
Lily Pysher, OT/S
Lily is a second-year occupational therapy student at West Virginia University. She is originally from Kennett Square, PA, and she has attended WVU since 2021. Alongside serving as a WVOTA representative, Lily will be the Vice President of WVU’s Pre-OT Club which is currently being established. Lily has a passion for learning about how to best help others grow, especially in mental health areas. In her free time, Lily loves to read books and spend time with friends and family.
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